Atman

Synopsis

A is lonely. A works in the library. One day he goes through the wrong door and ends up in a strange room filled with books, as far as the eye can see. He feels strangely drawn to one of the books, so he picks it up and begins to read. In it is his life, in minute detail. It takes thirty pages to describe the first time he ate something sweet. Fifty pages to describe his first memory. Soon, he can do nothing apart from read. B, a psychiatrist he regularly sees, suggests an experiment. To see if it will help. He suggests writing in the book and seeing what happens. Inspired by the stories of Jorge Luis Borges, Atman was first performed in Scots Gaelic by Tosg Theatre Company on a Highlands tour and now receives its English language world premiere. Performance length: Approximately 50 minutes.

Our Review:

9 November 2011

There are many plays with just two characters, but in Atman this particular facet is more literal than most. This lean little play, around 50 minutes long, revolves around A (Lucy Griffiths) and B (Matthew Spencer). A’s disconnection from life and consequent loneliness has led her to seek the help of B, a therapist; but this is no ordinary consultation.

Not only do these two not have full names, but they inhabit an uncanny world with allegedly only one language, and the mysterious and powerful Library is embarking upon a project to possess every book that could possibly exist. A has discovered a novel chronicling the story of her life, and at B’s suggestion, experiments to see if she can be the author of herself.

If this sounds like something out of a Borges short story, you’re not far off. Iain Finlay Macleod’s play – originally written and performed in Scots Gaelic five years ago – makes its English debut fully embracing...

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Latest User Review

Tracy.L - 10 November 2011:

I found this production to be well acted, with both characters delivering exemplary dialect and charisma of the subject surrounding the story. Although the existing scenery is of a production running concurrently along side Atman, don't let that put you off. The lighting and scene change sequence is slick and smooth, thanks to the excellent timing of Carla Batten who is Stage Manager for this production. I would throughly recommend you see this production, at this Bijou Theatre. ...

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